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\u201cThe Association is lovely. It\u2019s like a big, extended family. They made a significant donation to our family when Stella was having treatment,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs hideous as cancer is, it\u2019s brought out some of the best kindness from friends and family. We have friendships that will last forever.\u201d<\/p>\n
One-year-old Romeo and his sisters, four-year-old Alessia and six-year-old Sofia met the man in red earlier in the morning.<\/p>\n
The children were even more excited for 25 December after he waved goodbye. Alessia said she loves the feeling of Christmas when her family is \u201cspending time together.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mum, Louise Rossi said the visit was a special treat for her kids after a year of isolation and home-schooling, and she appreciates their relationship with the BIA.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving grown up in an Italian family, I want the kids to be able to do the same things. It\u2019s good they can see some of the culture here in Ballarat,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Committee member, Alisdair Horgen said due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Association\u2019s annual Christmas function could not run.<\/p>\n
\u201cSanta visits all the children at the party and gives them presents. We did not want the children to miss out after such a difficult year,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs we cannot host a get together, we have supported our members through vouchers at local restaurants.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile we are disappointed we can’t all meet in person this year, it was wonderful to see Santa bring joy to our community in Ballarat.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
FAMILIES of the Ballarat Italian Association received a special visitor and delivery last weekend. Supported by the BIA committee, Santa travelled door-to-door to greet the community group\u2019s young members and hand-deliver some gifts. Stella Morisi met him on Sunday morning. The Association has been a part of the 12-year-old\u2019s life since she was born. Her […]<\/p>\n